Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Florida with this irresistible Key Lime Pie recipe! Imagine a perfectly balanced dessert that combines the tangy zest of fresh key limes, a creamy, silky filling, and a buttery graham cracker crust that crumbles delightfully with each bite. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious home cook, this recipe promises to deliver a show-stopping dessert that will have everyone begging for seconds – and asking for your secret!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon grated lime zest
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center of the oven.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly coated and mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish, creating an even and compact crust. Use the back of a spoon or measuring cup to smooth the surface.
- Bake the graham cracker crust for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks until smooth and slightly pale.
- Add sweetened condensed milk to the egg yolks and whisk until well combined and creamy.
- Gradually pour in key lime juice and grated lime zest, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour the lime filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the pie for 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow the filling to set completely.
- Before serving, top with freshly whipped cream and optional lime zest garnish.
- Slice and serve chilled. Store any remaining pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Use fresh key lime juice whenever possible for the most authentic and vibrant flavor. If fresh key limes are unavailable, bottled key lime juice works well too.
- Make sure your graham cracker crust is packed tightly and evenly to prevent crumbling when serving.
- Don't overbake the filling – it should still have a slight jiggle in the center when you remove it from the oven. It will continue to set as it cools.
- For the creamiest texture, allow the pie to chill thoroughly in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours before serving.
- For a professional touch, use a piping bag to create beautiful whipped cream swirls on top of the pie.
- Garnish with additional lime zest or thin lime slices for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- This pie is best served chilled, so keep it refrigerated until just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 138kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 75mg
